7. Describe Falstaff’s temperament when he arrives at the tavern in Eastcheap.

8. How does Falstaff’s description of the robbery contrast to what really happened?

9. Explain the subtle changes that take place during the “play extempore.”

10. How does Hal manage the sheriff’s investigation of the reported robbery?

Answers
1. The conditions that prevail at the inn are such that the “house is turned upside down since Robin Ostler died.” The “peas and beans are as dank” as a dog, and the inn is overrun by fleas. This environment reflects the topsy-turvy world of the King’s court and state of England. Gadshill among his cronies mirrors the treachery that exists within the King’s council.

2. Poins removes Falstaff’s horse so he cannot run away after robbing the travelers. Then Hal tells Falstaff to lie down and “lay thine ear close to the ground, and list if thou canst hear the tread of travelers.” Poins and Hal arrange to have Falstaff and his gang meet the travelers “in a narrow lane” while Hal and Poins go off to another place with the excuse that if...